The Lake Como Area

The Lake Como Area Travel Guide

Lake Como’s appeal is a timeless one. Located in the north of Italy, near Milan, this natural paradise has been a popular destination since the time of the ancient Romans. More recently, it’s made headlines as George Clooney’s famous hideaway. Lake Como travel means exploring medieval remnants in stone villages like Bellagio and Varenna; it also means a look at opulent villas on lakeside estates. Rolling vineyards, olive trees, wisteria vines and Alpine peaks are the cherry on top. Take a look at Travel + Leisure’s Lake Como travel guide to start planning your getaway.

Things Not to Miss in Lake Como

• A visit to Bellagio, the picturesque stone village perched on the strip of land where the lake becomes a “Y”
• A stop in Piazza Cavour, one of the towns of Como’s bustling public squares
• A glance at Como’s resident cathedral
• A tour of some of the lake’s historic mansions, including Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta

When to Go to Lake Como

For travelers who love the water, the best time to visit Lake Como is during the summer when the water is warm, and the temperatures reach their annual peak. The summer months also tend to be humid, however, and also the most tourist-filled. Many people choose to visit in the shoulder months instead each spring and fall, when the weather is still good, and the crowds have lessened.

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Day 1: Milan to Bormio (120 miles)
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